Description
The Soulful Strings – The Magic Of Christmas – 180 Gram Green Vinyl Record
Vinyl Me Please Edition
featuring Dorothy Ashby, Phil Upchurch, Cleveland Eaton and More
VMP Exclusive
AAA Lacquers Cut from Tapes by Barry Grint, Alchemy Mastering at AIR
180g Green Vinyl
Limited to 2000 Foil Numbered Copies
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
The Magic of Christmas is a holiday album by The Soulful Strings, released in 1968. The Soulful Strings were a studio group led by arranger and producer Richard Evans, known for their unique blend of soul, jazz, and orchestral music. This album is a distinctive and elegant take on Christmas music, incorporating elements of soul, jazz, and classical arrangements to create a festive yet sophisticated sound.
The Soulful Strings were a group of session musicians based in Chicago, primarily associated with the Chess Records label and its subsidiary, Cadet Records. Richard Evans, who was a key figure in the Chicago music scene, led the group. He was known for his innovative arrangements that combined elements of classical music with soul and jazz, creating a lush, cinematic sound.
The Magic of Christmas is one of several albums recorded by The Soulful Strings, and it showcases their ability to transform familiar holiday tunes into something fresh and soulful. The album was released during a time when many artists were putting their unique spins on Christmas music, and The Soulful Strings’ approach stood out for its elegance and groove.
The album features a mix of traditional Christmas carols and popular holiday songs, all reimagined with the lush, soulful sound that The Soulful Strings were known for.
‘The Little Drummer Boy’ – The album opens with a rendition of this classic carol, featuring a rhythmic arrangement that highlights the percussive elements of the song, combined with the sweeping strings and subtle jazz influences.
‘Deck the Halls’ – This track transforms the familiar melody into a groovy, upbeat number with a swinging rhythm and rich orchestration, making it one of the standout tracks on the album.
‘The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)’ – A soulful interpretation of the holiday classic, this version emphasizes the warm, cozy feeling of the original, with lush strings and a gentle groove.
‘Santa Claus Is Coming to Town’ – The Soulful Strings bring a lively, jazz-infused arrangement to this holiday favorite, featuring a catchy rhythm and vibrant orchestral flourishes.
‘Greensleeves (What Child Is This?)’ – This track showcases the group’s ability to blend classical influences with soul, offering a beautiful, contemplative version of the traditional English folk tune.
‘Jingle Bells’ – A fun and festive rendition of ‘Jingle Bells,’ this version is driven by a strong rhythm section and lively string arrangements, creating a joyful and energetic vibe.
‘Silent Night’ – The album closes with a serene and soulful interpretation of ‘Silent Night,’ featuring delicate strings and a peaceful, reflective mood.
The Magic of Christmas is characterized by its sophisticated arrangements and the seamless blending of genres. Richard Evans’ orchestrations bring a sense of elegance and warmth to the album, while the soul and jazz elements give the music a groove and vibrancy that make these familiar songs feel fresh and contemporary.
The album’s arrangements are lush and cinematic, with an emphasis on strings, but also incorporating elements of jazz, such as swinging rhythms and subtle improvisations. This approach makes ‘The Magic of Christmas’ stand out from other holiday albums of its time, offering a listening experience that is both festive and refined.
The Magic of Christmas was well-received upon its release, particularly by listeners who appreciated its unique take on holiday music. Over the years, the album has become a beloved classic among fans of soulful and jazz-infused Christmas music.
The Soulful Strings were known for their ability to bridge the gap between different musical styles, and ‘The Magic of Christmas’ is a perfect example of their versatility and creativity. The album continues to be celebrated for its timeless appeal and its ability to bring a sense of sophistication to the holiday season.
The Magic of Christmas remains a standout holiday album, particularly for those who enjoy a blend of soul, jazz, and orchestral music. It captures the spirit of the season with elegance and style, making it a perfect choice for festive gatherings or for simply enjoying a quiet, reflective moment during the holidays.
For fans of The Soulful Strings or anyone looking for a fresh take on Christmas classics, The Magic of Christmas is a must-listen, offering a unique and timeless addition to any holiday music collection.
Track Listing
The Little Drummer Boy
Snowfall
Dance Of The Sugarplum Fairy
Deck The Halls
Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
Sleigh Ride
Merry Christmas Baby
Jingle Bells
The Christmas Song
Parade Of The Wooden Soldiers
